The weather in Jefferson City was a little kinder to us this week which was a blessing for the scores of citizens who showed up to testify for, against, or just watch the movement of bills through committees. We, as legislators, are
spending longer hours in committee meetings, getting the various appropriations ready for the Budget Committee.
On the floor this week, we passed HB162. As you will remember, this bill addresses a court ruling which moved occupational disease claims from the workers compensation system (where they have properly been for over 80 years) into the courts. If this loophole were left to stand, it would be devastating to our economy and jobs. This legislation will permit appropriate damages to again be determined by the workers compensation system which results in a reduction in insurance costs for small business and less of a burden to our court system.
HB46 also passed the House this week by an overwhelming vote of 149 to 9. This bill eliminates the ability of governments and municipalities to unnecessarily mandate fire sprinkler installation on single family dwellings and townhouses. Builders however must still offer installation of such devices at the purchasers cost. This provides the homeowner the freedom to choose what they deem best for their family and their finances without unwarranted government interference.
Chief Justice William Ray Price Jr. brought us “The State Of The Judiciary” address this week. He expressed the belief that we should consider different treatment for non-violent offenders in our penal system. It was in his words "an honest assessment of the non-rehabilitative nature of imprisonment." He heaped praises on judges like our own Judge Perigo and Judge LePage for their Drug Courts, and implored us to look at the benefits to society and taxpayers, to keep these people out of the prison system. I'd say there are difficult decisions ahead and we all need more information.
My HB 233, which provides a 300 ft. buffer zone between protesters and funerals, was presented in committee this week. I was sure nervous, but I got through it. HB 147 was also presented which stipulates that Missouri products be used for State projects providing cost and quality are competitive. It seems to me that some of these bills should be "No Brainers" but that's not the way it works.
My "Capitol History Moment" for the week is the grand entrance. The stairway is 30 feet wide and extends from the front portico to the third Legislative floor. It is over 65 feet from wall to wall and when built, was said to be the widest stairway in the world. At the entrance is a bronze door 13 by 18 feet and reported to be the largest since the Roman Era. The cost in 1914 was $15,000.00.
More next week, until then, I am, and remain in your service.
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